The Western Australian government has announced a major financial injection aimed at tackling the state's family and domestic violence crisis head-on. Premier Roger Cook and Women's Interests Minister Sue Ellery revealed a substantial $349 million funding boost dedicated to improving rapid responses to incidents.
A Four-Year Commitment to Safety
This significant investment is earmarked for the next four years and forms a core part of the government's upcoming state budget. The funds are specifically designed to support the Safe at Home program, a key initiative that helps victim-survivors remain safely in their own homes or a home of their choice after experiencing violence, while the perpetrator is removed.
The announcement comes amidst alarming statistics. Police in Western Australia currently respond to an average of 280 family and domestic violence incidents every single day. This relentless toll underscores the urgent need for enhanced, immediate support systems.
Where the Funding Will Be Directed
The multi-million dollar package will be strategically allocated across several critical areas to create a more robust and responsive system. A primary focus will be on expanding the capacity of the Women's Family and Domestic Violence Response Teams. These specialist teams provide crucial on-the-ground support in the immediate aftermath of an incident.
Furthermore, the funding will enable an increase in the number of Family and Domestic Violence Response Advocates working directly within the WA Police Force. These advocates play a vital role in connecting victim-survivors with essential services and safety planning from the moment police are called.
Other key areas to benefit include:
- Enhanced support for the Stopping Family Violence court program.
- Increased resources for men's behaviour change programs to address perpetrator accountability.
- Additional funding for crisis accommodation and support services for those who cannot remain in their home.
Government and Community Response
Premier Roger Cook framed the funding as a non-negotiable priority for his government. He emphasised that keeping women and children safe requires a well-resourced, coordinated response that intervenes swiftly and effectively at the point of crisis.
Women's Interests Minister Sue Ellery provided further detail, stating the investment would ensure victim-survivors receive immediate, specialist support when they need it most. She highlighted the goal of reducing trauma and preventing further escalation by having expert advocates embedded within the police response.
While the funding announcement has been welcomed by frontline service providers, advocates continue to stress the need for long-term, sustainable funding beyond the four-year budget cycle. They also point to the necessity of parallel investments in prevention, early intervention, and affordable housing to create a comprehensive strategy against family and domestic violence in Western Australia.
The $349 million commitment marks one of the largest single investments in rapid response capabilities in the state's recent history, signalling a heightened governmental focus on a pervasive social issue.
